Trailer Hitch Cover Push-Button Release for Secure Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trailer hitch cover retention and release systems are costly, prone to wear, and difficult for end users to operate, with snap fasteners requiring complex tuning and potentially breaking.
Innovation Solution
A push-to-release snap button mechanism with a depressible button release mechanism that allows easy removal and installation of trailer hitch covers, reducing tooling costs and improving user satisfaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If barbed snaps are used for retention, then the cover can be secured in place, but the snaps can break and are not easily removed by users
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into two distinct functional components: a retention mechanism (barbed snap) that secures the cover during normal use, and a release mechanism (button with slot) that enables easy removal. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The button acts as an intermediary tool that mediates between the user and the barbed snap retention mechanism. By inserting the button into the slot and pressing, the user can easily release the cover without directly manipulating the difficult-to-remove barbed snap fastener.
2Ease of operation
If quarter turn fasteners are used, then the cover can be removed and reinstalled, but the fasteners wear after repeated use and do not provide desired longevity
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the frequent operational action (insertion/removal via button and slot) from the permanent retention function (barbed snap engagement). The barbed snap provides durable, long-lasting retention, while the button/slot mechanism handles repeated user interactions without wearing the retention components.
3Reliability
If barbed snaps are used, then the cover can be secured without rattling or falling off, but the design requires many tuning steps during assembly and slows production
Solution Approach 1:
The button and slot mechanism is designed to be self-aligning and self-regulating during assembly. The slot guides the button into proper position, and the barbed snap automatically engages at the correct depth, eliminating the need for multiple tuning steps to achieve proper retention force and removal force balance.
4Reliability
If barbed snaps are used, then the cover can be retained securely, but it is not evident to the end user on how to remove the cover
Solution Approach 1:
The button is made visually distinct and prominent, creating an obvious visual cue for users. The button's design and positioning make it evident that this is the release mechanism, providing clear visual instruction to users on how to remove the cover without requiring additional documentation or instructions.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a removable cover (10) for the trailer hitch area of a vehicle such as an SUV, pickup truck or other vehicle (11). A fascia (12) having an opening (14) for allowing access for a trailer hitch area of a vehicle is provided. A cover member (16) for removably covering the opening (14) is operative for being secured in the opening (14). The cover member includes a lock mechanism for being received in the fascia, said lock mechanism including a depressible button release mechanism (18).